How long do fillers last?
This varies person to person, depending on how much filler is injected, how quickly you break it down which comes down to genetics/how quickly their body breaks down the filler, however the manufacturers typically advise 6–18 months, depending on the area treated, product used, and your metabolism.​
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Is the treatment painful?
​Most people find it very tolerable. Numbing cream is applied beforehand, and many fillers contain local anaesthetic to improve comfort as the procedure goes on.
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Do I need a consultation first?
Yes. A consultation ensures the treatment is suitable, safe, and tailored to your goals.
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How should I prepare?
Ensuring you are suitable for dermal filler is an important first step. Contraindications include:
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Known allergy to hyaluronic acid fillers or a history of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), including to bee or wasp stings
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Active skin infection or inflammation in the treatment area
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Recent antibiotics, illness (viral or bacterial), or vaccinations within the past 2 weeks
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Active autoimmune disease or being on immunosuppressive medication
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Pregnancy or breastfeeding
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History of keloid or hypertrophic scarring
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Bleeding disorders or use of anticoagulant medication (may increase bruising risk)
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Previous permanent fillers in the area
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Recent dental work or planned dental procedures (particularly for lower face treatments)
A full medical history will be taken during our consultation to ensure treatment is safe and appropriate for you.
Prior to your appointment please avoid alcohol, aspirin, fish oil supplements and anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen or naproxen for 48 hours before (if medically safe) to reduce bruising risk. Make sure you are in London 48 hours after the filler treatment as this ensures you are able to return to clinic if there are any complications that need in clinic resolution/treatment.
Is there downtime?
You may experience swelling, redness, or bruising, which usually settles within 3-14 days. Like any clinical procedure there are risks and although rare, it's important that if you notice any spreading bruising beyond the treated area, pale areas or pain that's not quite right, you will need to contact us.
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When will I see results?
Results are visible immediately, but final results are best assessed at 2 weeks once swelling settles.
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What should I avoid after treatment?
For 24 hours:
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No strenuous exercise
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Avoid alcohol
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No make up, or touching face frequently to avoid infection
For a week post treatment:
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Avoid excessive heat (saunas, steam rooms, facials)
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Avoid touching or massaging the area unless advised
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Are dermal fillers safe?
When performed by a qualified medical professional, dermal fillers are generally safe, but like any medical procedure, they carry risks.
The most important rare complication is vascular occlusion, where filler blocks a blood vessel. This can cause unusual pain, pale or mottled skin, or bruising that spreads beyond the treated area. If you notice anything that doesn’t feel right, contact us immediately. You must remain contactable and able to attend an assessment for 48 hours after treatment.
Other possible complications include:
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Asymmetry: while we aim for symmetry on the day, very minor differences can occur once the swelling goes down after 2 weeks. Please note any correction would not be included in the initial treatment price.
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Migration: filler can rarely move from where it was placed.
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Delayed nodules or inflammation: rare lumps can develop weeks or months later and may require treatment.
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Infection: uncommon when appropriate aseptic technique is followed.
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Blindness: an exceptionally rare but serious complication caused by compression of a blood vessel supplying the eye. This risk will be discussed as part of your consent.
Can dermal fillers be dissolved?
There are certain fillers like HArmonyCa that cannot be fully dissolved. All the fillers used in our clinic can be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase if needed.
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Will I look unnatural with dermal filler?
Not when done correctly. The goal is subtle enhancement and natural results, not overfilling.
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How much filler will I need?
This varies depending on your goals and starting point. Those who have lost more volume would require more dermal filler to restore what once was. Many patients benefit from a gradual, staged approach and the ml recommended will be discussed in your consultation.
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Can filler prevent ageing of the skin, like Botox?
They can help slow visible signs of ageing by maintaining structure and supporting skin, but they don’t stop the ageing process.
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What if I have had fillers before?
It depends on when the last dermal filler was injected and how much of it is still left in the area. If certain features like cheeks or lips appear overfilled or there is evidence of migration, we should recommend dissolving this first before injecting any more in. This is to ensure safety as well as better aesthetic outcome. Dr Diana will assess previous treatments and plan accordingly. Please note filler dissolving is not included in the dermal filler htreamtnte price.
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